Gas tax opponents aren't 'whiners'

Letter writer William Smith, who calls opponents of the proposed gas tax increase "whiners," had better take a look at how our taxes never seem to be used for the purposes they are assessed ("Gas tax brings out whiners," Oct. 19). If he thought about it, he might change his mind. Government waste is a bigger issue.

I agree that our roads are in terrible condition. But how come jurisdictions such as Baltimore County spend money on "traffic calming" projects — islands and speed humps in the middle of two-lane residential streets — instead of repairing or paving those streets?

I thought "traffic calming" was supposed to be accomplished by speed limits and enforcement. Could it be these politicians own or have friends in the concrete and asphalt business?

As for Mr. Smith's comment on Social Security, one only need to look at one's pay stub (if one is employed) to see that you and your employer split the Social Security tax. This is not free money given to retirees but money they paid into the system over their entire working lives.

Calling conservatives "whiners" is like the pot calling the kettle black. Get real.

This fall, Maryland voters will have a constitutional amendment on the ballot of interest to all state residents, taxpayers and drivers: Question 1, which will create a "lockbox" for state transportation funds.

As of late last week, the average price of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline in the Baltimore area hovered around $2.71, about six cents below the national average and a few pennies less than a week ago. One year ago, the average was $3.52. And where are gasoline prices headed in September?...

The top transportation official in the state has ordered an immediate inspection of 27 aging bridges. This announcement comes after a slab of concrete from an I-495 overpass struck a car in Prince George's County ("Md. to inspect aging bridges," Feb. 13).

For nearly six years America has not had a long-term transportation bill. While Congress has bickered and passed short-term patchwork bills, our nation's roads, bridges and public transit systems have deteriorated. Moreover, projects to modernize and expand our transportation infrastructure have...

In your editorial, "Congress on the clock" (April 13), you talk about the federal Highway Trust Fund going bankrupt unless Congress acts to raise taxes. Motorists deserve better highways and bridge repair, but the truth is not all of the tax money motorists pay goes to build or repair roads or...

It is my understanding that Maryland's transportation infrastructure is in serious need of maintenance. If that is the case, what could possibly be the point of reducing the tolls on our highways, other than to make political capital ("Panel expected to OK toll reductions," May 7)?